For one type of computer-driven fund, amassing giant positions in currencies, bonds, stocks and other assets is becoming the norm. Commodity trading advisers, or CTAs are computer-driven funds that try to make money betting on market trends and patterns.

Elliott International said it will nominate two new candidates to NZ Telecom's board because of dissatisfaction with the company's performance, and it will push for a structural separation of the company.

Hedge funds appear set to post their worst monthly performance in six years as strategies run into trouble. Some previously highflying funds are sustaining declines in the double digits, and several managers are down more than 20% for the year.